Southeastern is set to enhance its service with the introduction of additional modern trains. The rail operator will receive the first two of 13 new Class 377 units this month, following a joint agreement with Govia Thameslink Railway.
These new trains will offer a more comfortable and reliable journey for passengers, featuring air conditioning, at-seat plug sockets, and improved onboard information. They will primarily replace the older Networker trains on the Maidstone East and Tunbridge Wells lines.
From 15 December, Southeastern will introduce an extra 220 weekly services across its network. This includes extending two evening services from Charing Cross to Maidstone East to Ashford International on weekdays.
Sophie Barker, Head of Major Programmes at Southeastern, said: “The arrival of these trains is a key milestone in our ongoing work to provide a more reliable service by modernising our fleet.
“The Class 377s have better acceleration and braking than the Networkers they’re replacing. This should help us provide a more reliable service, while providing a better experience for customers.”
The 13 units will join the 23 existing Class 377s already operated by Southeastern. Maintenance will continue to be provided by Govia Thameslink Railway.
Steve Lammin, Engineering Director at Govia Thameslink Railway, said: “We’re delighted to be able to assist Southeastern with this major improvement for customers. This demonstrates how the industry works together for the benefit of everyone.
“We are making this possible by bringing in 30 additional Class 379 Electrostars over the course of next year, which will start work on our network early in 2025.”
This latest fleet upgrade is part of Southeastern’s ongoing commitment to improving its services. The operator has already introduced 30 new City Beam trains on its Metro routes and is currently refurbishing its high-speed fleet. Further plans to upgrade the Metro fleet and replace the Networkers are also in the pipeline.
